Footwear upper including strand layers

ABSTRACT

An article of footwear includes a sole and an upper at least partially formed of [a textile element. The textile element includes a yarn matrix having a plurality of interlocked strands oriented in predetermined directions. A structural element may be captured within the matrix at selected locations. In operation, the matrix is stitched onto a temporary substrate. The substrate is removed and the article coupled to a sole structure to form the article of footwear.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. NonprovisionalApplication Ser. No. 14/668,935, filed 25 Mar. 2015 and entitled“Footwear Including Textile Element,” which, in turn, claims priority toprovisional application 61/970,070, filed on 25 Mar. 2014 and entitled“Footwear Including Embroidered Element.” The disclosure of each of theaforementioned applications is incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to footwear and, in particular, to anarticle of footwear with an upper including textile element and a methodof forming the article of footwear.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Athletic footwear such as running shoes is designed for comfort anddurability. Athletic footwear is typically formed of materials havinginsulating, moisture resistant, and/or abrasion-resistant properties.Typical athletic uppers are a laminate of individual layers, with eachlayer imparting different properties to the upper. For example, an upperfor athletic footwear includes an exterior layer, an intermediate layer,and an interior layer joined via an adhesive. The exterior layer isformed from one or more of leather, synthetic leather, rubber, orsynthetic textile. The intermediate layer us formed of foam, and theinterior layer is a textile.

Such conventional athletic footwear, while durable, is heavy since eachlayer of the upper adds weight to the footwear. In addition, this typeof construction interferes with the breathability of the upper,requiring further modification to compensate. Thus, it would bedesirable to provide an upper that is light, while durable for use inperformance footwear.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed toward an article of manufactureincluding a textile element. Specifically, an article of footwearincludes a sole and an upper at least partially formed of an embroideredelement. The textile element includes a yarn matrix having a pluralityof interlocked strands oriented in predetermined directions. Astructural element may be captured within the matrix at selectedlocations. In operation, the matrix is stitched onto a temporarysubstrate. The substrate is removed and the article coupled to a solestructure to form the article of footwear.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side view of an article of footwear including an upper inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2A is a schematic of the stitch pattern of the embroidered elementin accordance with an embodiment of present invention;

FIG. 2B is a cross sectional view of the crossing threads of theembroidered element in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate schematics showing the relationship betweenlayers of the embroidered element;

FIG. 4 illustrates a portion of a footwear upper including theembroidered element, with an inset showing a close-up of the supportthreads;

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram showing a process of forming the embroideredelement;

FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate footwear uppers including the embroideredelement in accordance with embodiments of the invention; and

FIG. 8 illustrates a close-up of the vamp of the footwear upper shown inFIG. 7.

Like numerals have been utilized to identify like components throughoutthe figures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Turning to FIG. 1, the article of manufacture is an article of footwear10 including an upper 105 and a sole structure 110. The footwear 10defines several regions corresponding with various parts of a foot.Specifically, the footwear defines a rear footwear region 115 generallycorresponding with the rear of the foot (e.g., the hindfoot includingthe heel); an intermediate footwear region 120 disposed forward the rearregion and generally corresponding to the midfoot (e.g., the arched(instep) and ball areas of the foot); and a forward footwear region 125disposed forward of intermediate region and generally corresponding tothe forefoot (e.g., the toes of the foot).

The upper 105 includes a heel 130, a lateral side 135, a medial side140, an instep 145, and a toe cage or box 150. The heel 145 forms a rearportion of upper 10 and is generally configured to extend along the heelof the foot. The lateral side 135 spans through a longitudinal length ofthe article footwear 10, being configured to extend along the lateralside of the foot. Similarly, the medial side 140 spans a longitudinallength of footwear, being configured to extend along the medial side ofthe foot. The instep 145, positioned between the lateral side and themedial side, extends along the instep of the foot. Finally, the toe cage150 defines the forward area of the upper 105, being configured to housethe toes of the foot.

The upper 105 forms a cavity that receives the foot. Specifically, theheel 130, lateral side 135, medial side 140, instep 145, and toe cage150 cooperate to define an interior cavity into which a foot is insertedby way of an access opening or collar 155. The upper may further includea tongue 160 and lace connections 165 (e.g., eyelets) that receive alace 170.

At least a portion of the upper 105 is formed of a textile elementincluding a yarn matrix. The yarn matrix is a self-supporting,embroidered structure including a plurality of interlocking yarn rowsoriented in predetermined directions. Referring to FIG. 2A, theself-supporting, embroidered structure 200 includes a plurality ofcrossing yarns 205 (also called binding yarns) oriented in apredetermined pattern (e.g., in rows 230A, 230B, 230C). Each crossingyarn 205 includes a pair of component strands that interlock at selectedlocations along the length of the yarn. Specifically, referring to FIG.2B, a crossing yarn 205 includes a first or upper strand 215A and asecond or lower strand 215B that is generally aligned (e.g., verticallyaligned) with the first strand. A strand is intended to include singlefiber, filament, or monofilament, as well as an assemblage of textilefibers having a high ratio of length to diameter and normally used as aunit (e.g. includes slivers, roving, single yarns, plies yarns, cords,braids, ropes, etc.).

Referring to FIG. 2B, the crossing yarn 205 includes a first strand 215Aand a second strand 215B coupled at selected locations along the lengthof the yarn. Specifically, the strands 215A, 215B are coupled via astitch 225, i.e., an interlocking structure that locks the strandstogether. By way of example, a lockstitch (where the one strand wrapsthe other strand) is utilized. A lockstitch effectively secures thestrands to each other, preventing unraveling of crossing yarn 205. Whilea particular lockstitch is illustrated (an over-lock stitch), it shouldbe understood that different means of interlocking may be utilized toprovide desired load extension characteristics to the textile structure.For example, other stitches such as a tatami stitch, a triaxial fillstitch, satin stitch, running stitch, chain stitch, etc. may beutilized.

The stitches 225 may be disposed at any predetermined location along thestructure. Typically, the stitches 225 are disposed at regular intervalsalong the length of the crossing yarn 205. The distance between adjacentstitches is referred to as the stitch length SL. The strands 215A, 215Bare substantially aligned with each other along the stitch length. Thestitch length may be any distance suitable for its described purpose (toform a self-supporting embroidered element and/or footwear upper). Forexample, the stitch length may range from about 0.1 mm to about 5 mm(e.g., 0.5 mm to 4 mm).

By controlling the number of stitches in the crossing yarn 205, theoverall stitch density of the embroidered structure 205 may becontrolled to affect the overall properties of the structure (and thusthe footwear upper). For example, the crossing yarn 205 and/or theself-supporting, embroidered structure 200 may include a high stitchdensity, a medium stitch density, or a low stitch density. In a highdensity stitch configuration, the strands 215A, 215B of the crossingyarn 205 include a stitch every 0.20 mm-1.50 mm (e.g., 1 mm). In amedium density stitch configuration, the strands 215A, 215B are stitchedevery 1.60-3.50 mm (e.g., 2 mm). A low stitch density configurationincludes stitches every 3.60-5.00 mm (e.g., 4 mm). Accordingly, stitchdensity refers not only to the density of stitches in a crossing yarn205, but also the number of stitches in a predetermined area of theembroidered structure 200 (e.g., number of stitches per squaremillimeter, centimeter, etc.). In a preferred embodiment, the stitchlength is less than 5 mm. Stitch lengths of greater than 5 mm mayintroduce failures during the stitching process.

Each crossing yarn 205 (i.e., each strand 215A, 215B) may be formed ofany material suitable for its described purpose (i.e., to create anembroidered structure and/or a footwear upper). By way of example, eachstrand may be formed of nylon, polyester, polyacrylic, polypropylene,polyethylene, metal, silk, cellulosic fibers (e.g., cotton), elastomers,etc. The strands 215A, 215B forming the crossing yarn 205 may be formedof the same or different materials. For example, the first strand 215Amay be formed of a first material (e.g., nylon) while the second threadcomponent 215B may be formed of a second material (e.g., polyester). Inan embodiment, both strands of the crossing yarns 205 are formed ofnylon (e.g., M60 nylon).

Additionally, the crossing yarn 205 may include fusible or non-fusiblematerial. In an embodiment, the crossing yarn 205 (i.e., one or morestrands 215A, 215B of the crossing yarn) may include thermoplasticpolymers capable of transitioning to a liquid upon heating to apredetermined melting or glass transition temperature, and thenrecrystallizing when heat is removed to form a hardened structure (i.e.,the crossing yarns are capable of fusing, combining with adjacentfusible materials or encapsulating adjacent non-fusible materials). Byway of example, a strand 215A, 215B may be a filament of low-meltmaterial (e.g., low-melt polyester having a melting point of less than100° C.). By way of further example, the crossing yarn may include asheath core or double covered yarn, including a sheath or covering offusible material and a core including non-fusible material.

The crossing yarn 205 may further include a high tensile material, i.e.,a material having a tensile strength of at least 1000 MPa. By way ofexample, strands 215A, 215B of the crossing yarn 205 may comprise anultra-high molecular polyethylene (e.g., DYNEEMA, available from RoyalDSM, Netherlands). Other high tensile strength materials include carbonfiber, fiberglass, aramids (e.g., para-aramid fibers and meta-aramidfibers) (KEVLAR, available from DuPont or TWARON, available from TejinAramid) and liquid crystal polymer fibers (VECTRAN, available fromCelanese Acetate, LLC or ZYLON, available from Toyobo Corporation).

The diameter of the strands 215A, 215B may be any diameter suitable fortheir described purpose (i.e., to form a self-supporting embroideredstructure/form a footwear upper). By way of example, the strands may befrom about 0.003 mm to about 5 mm (e.g., 0.05 mm to 1 mm) in diameter.

As noted above, the structure 200 may be formed via a modifiedembroidery process in which crossing yarns are selectively fixed to atemporary substrate. Briefly, the temporary substrate 300 (FIG. 3) ispositioned on a frame. The first strand 215A is disposed on a first sideof the temporary substrate and the second strand 215B is disposed on asecond side of the temporary substrate such that it is generally alignedwith the first strand. At predetermined intervals, the second strand215B passes through the temporary substrate, over the first strand 215A,and back to through the substrate to form a stitch 225. The frame isrepositioned and the process continues, forming a row or run along thetemporary substrate. The resulting yarn 205 includes strands 215A, 215Bgenerally aligned on opposite sides of the temporary substrate. Once theinnermost crossing yarn rows are formed, additional overstitch orenclosing rows may be stitched into the temporary substrate such thatthe overstitch strands cross over their related innermost strands. Thisprocess may continue to form multiple layers of crossing yarns in thematrix. Once the desired number of rows is created, the temporarysubstrate is then removed, resulting in a self-supporting structure.

The embroidered structure 200 may include crossing yarns 205 ordered ina predetermined pattern. For example, the crossing yarns 205 may beprovided in a matrix including a plurality of intersecting and/oroverlapping strands 215A, 215B. Referring back to FIG. 2A, thematrix/structure 200 includes a first line or row or run 230A ofcrossing yarns 205 oriented along a first direction (e.g., generallyvertically from the perspective of FIG. 2A) and a second row or run 230Bof crossing yarns oriented along a second direction (e.g., generallyhorizontally from the perspective of FIG. 2A). Accordingly, a grid isformed, with the first row 230A being oriented substantiallyorthogonally to the second row 230B within the matrix.

Additionally, a third row or run 230C oriented along a third directionmay be provided. The third row 230C defines a generally arcuate linehaving a predetermined radius of curvature. As shown, the third row 230Cmay include segments that bisect the grid blocks defined by the first230A and second 230B rows. In other words, the third row or run 230C maybe oriented at an angle with respect to each of the first row 230A andthe second row 230B. In an embodiment, the angle of orientation may fallwithin the range of about 5° to about 90°.

The matrix may further include a fourth row or run 230D that forms azigzag pattern within the structure 200.

As noted above, the embroidered structure 200 in accordance with thepresent invention includes multiple layers. That is, any of the crossingyarn rows 230A, 230B, 230C (i.e., any of strands 215A, 215B) mayenclose/overlap or be enclosed/overlapped by any of the other rows. Byway of example, and referring to FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C, the firstcrossing yarn row 230A may define a base or innermost layer of thematrix, being placed first on the temporary substrate 300 such that itdoes not overlap any other row. Subsequently, the second crossing yarnrow 230B is placed on the temporary substrate such that the first strand215A of the second row passes over the first strand of the first row230A. Similarly, the second strand 215B of the second row 230B passesover the second strand of the first row 230A. Similarly, the third row230C may be formed after the formation of the second row 230B such thatit passes over each of the first row 230A and the second row.

The number of layers formed in the embroidered structure 200 is notparticularly limited. In a preferred embodiment, the structure 200includes a first or base layer and a second or overpass layer formedover the base layer. Additionally, a third, overstitch layer may beformed at selected locations within the structure 200 (i.e., thestructure includes areas of three layers and areas of two layers).

As seen in the figure, the stitch 225 of any enclosing row may bealigned with or offset from the stitches of an enclosed row. Similarly,the stitches of an enclosing row may align with or be offset from thecrossing yarns 205 of an enclosed row.

With this configuration, the properties (e.g., tensile strength) of theembroidered structure 200 may be customized for a particular use. Forexample, the strength of an area within the embroidered structure 200may be modified by increasing the density of crossing yarns 205 and/orincreasing the density of stitches 225 within the area. Specifically, ahigh density area would possess higher tensile/burst strength and lowerbreathability, while a low density area would possess a lowertensile/burst strength and higher breathability.

The process according to the present invention further permits theincorporation of structural, support, or compressible elements withinthe embroidered structure 200. Typically, these elements are notdirectly stitched into the matrix, but are instead captured within it.Stated another way, these elements are not yarns or strands stitchedtogether, but are separate components secured to the embroideredstructure by the yarns or strands. A structural element is an elementdesigned to help carry the tensile load and/or disperse the forcesapplied to the upper during normal use. Referring the FIG. 4, showingembroidered structure portion defining a medium stich density area 405and a low stitch density area 410, a plurality of structural elements415 are disposed at selected locations within the structure. Eachstructural element 415 includes a plurality of high tensile strengthstrands 420A, 420B, 420C such as aramid strands (e.g., KEVLAR, availablefrom DuPont). The number of strands 420A, 420B, 420C forming thestructural element 415 is not limited, and may be selected in light ofthe desired level of support.

The structural element 415 is incorporated into the embroideredstructure 200 by capturing the strands between structure layers. Thatis, each of the structural element strands 420A, 420B, 420C is at leastpartially captured within the embroidered structure 200 such that atleast a portion of the strand is secured in position by a crossingelement 205. In operation, the structural element 415 (i.e., the strands420A, 420B, 420C) may be placed on one surface of temporary substrateand the rows 230A, 230B, 230C formed as described above. As a result,the structural element strands 420A, 420B, 420C are enclosed by thematrix, with the first 230A and second 230B rows of crossing yarn 205passing over the structural element strands 230A, 230B, 230C (i.e.,first crossing yarn strand 215A travels over one side of the structuralelement strands and the second crossing yarn strand 215B crossing overthe opposite side of the structure element strands).

The structural element 415 may, furthermore, be enclosed within a tube,channel, or pocket 425 formed integrally with the embroidered structure200. Specifically, the structural element 415 may be secured within theembroidered structure 200 by crossing yarns 205 that enclose theelement. Referring to the expanded view in FIG. 4, a plurality ofchannel yarns 405 are arranged along the length of the structuralelement 415 (i.e., the plurality of structural element strands 420A,420B, 420C) in a close side-by-side relationship such that the crossingyarn strands 215A, 215B are oriented generally parallel to each other,with the strand direction being generally orthogonal to the longitudinalaxis of the structural element strands. Each channel yarn 405 includesfirst and second channel strands secured along its ends and unsecuredbetween its ends to define a channel or pocket operable to receive thestructural element. By way of example, a stem stitch may be utilized toform the channel or pocket 425.

The stitches 225 are positioned adjacent the lateral sides of thestructural element 415 thereby forming the channel, tube, or pocket 425that houses the structural element. The channel 425 secures thestructural element 415 within the embroidered structure 200 such thatthe position of the structural element remains fixed. Additionally, thechannel 425, covering the entire length of the structural element 415,enclosing it therein, serves to protect the structural element from theambient environment (UV radiation, moisture, etc.). For example, aramid(e.g., KEVLAR) is UV and water sensitive. Accordingly, enclosing thearamid strands protects the strands, improving their longevity.

A structural element may further include textiles operable to impartimproved tensile strength to the upper. By way of example, a nonwovenpanel may be positioned within the eyelet row to reinforce the eyeletholes.

A support element is a component of the footwear upper operable toprovide support to the wearer. Footwear often includes brace elementssuch as plastic splints configured to stabilize the ankle of the wearer(to prevent inversion and/or eversion) of the foot. Additional heelsupports (e.g., heel counters) are incorporated to secure and limitmovement of the heel during use of the shoe. Finally, other protectiveitems may be incorporated such as toe covers. In general, these elementsare formed of an elastomer such as thermoplastic polyurethane. Theseelements may be incorporated into the embroidered structure in a mannersimilar to that of the structural element. That is, the support elementmay be positioned on the temporary substrate and captured within one ormore layers defined by the crossing yarn rows 230A, 230B, 230C.Additionally, a channel or pocket 425 formed of crossing yarns 205 mayfurther secure the position of the support element, fixing its locationwithin the structure 200.

A compression element is capable of absorbing impact forces. By way ofexample, a compressible element may be formed of foam (e.g., ethylenevinyl acetate foam). The compression element may be located within theupper at any desired location, e.g., along the collar of the upper,within the heel cup, or within the tongue of the shoe. The compressionelement may be incorporated into the embroidered structure 200 in amanner similar to that of the structural element. That is, the comfortelement may be positioned on the temporary substrate and captured withinone or more layers formed by the crossing yarn rows 230A, 230B, 230C.Additionally, a channel 425 formed of crossing yarns 205 may furthersecure the position of the support element, fixing its location withinthe structure 200.

The formation process 500 of the embroidered structure 200 is explainedin greater detail with reference to FIG. 5. At step 505, the temporarysubstrate 300 is provided, being secured to a support frame. Thetemporary substrate 300 is formed of material that is removable in amanner that does not damage the embroidered structure 200. In anembodiment, the temporary substrate 300 is removed chemically, e.g., viadissolution. Dissolvable substrate materials are selected to minimize orprevent any harm to the physical properties of the materials forming theembroidered structure 200 during the dissolution process. By way ofexample, the temporary substrate 300 may be water soluble, being formedof, e.g., polyvinyl acetate, polyvinyl alcohol, or alginate.Accordingly, the dissolution medium is an aqueous medium such as waterat elevated temperature (e.g., 50° C.). Alternatively, the temporarysubstrate may be soluble in an organic solvent such as acetone (e.g., anacetate-based substrate).

At Step 510, any of the structural elements 415, the support elements,or the compression elements may be placed on the temporary substrate300. Each element is placed such that it corresponds to the properlocation of the finished upper (collar, heel cup, toe cage, etc.). Forexample, the structural element 415 may be positioned on the temporarysubstrate 300 such that the longitudinal axis of the structural elementgenerally aligns with the tensile load direction of the footwear upper.It is important to note that while the structural, support, orcompression elements are discussed as being placed directly on thesubstrate 300, it should be understood that they may be added at anypoint during the embroidery process (e.g., after the base layer ofcrossing yarns 205 is secured to the temporary substrate).

At Step 515, the crossing yarn rows 230A, 230B, 230C are formed.Specifically, the crossing yarn rows 230A, 230B, 230C (including firststrand 215A and second strand 215B) are applied to the temporarysubstrate 300 as described above (Step 415A).

At Step 525, the temporary substrate 300 is removed, e.g., viadissolution. By way of example, the temporary substrate 300 may beplaced in a bath of dissolving agent such as water (e.g., water heatedto a specified temperature (e.g., 50°), steam, etc.). By way of furtherexample, the dissolving agent may be applied to the temporary substrate300 via spray coating, etc. The substrate removal process may furtherinvolve the application of heat or mechanical agitation effective to aidin dissolution of the substrate without harming the embroideredstructure 200. Once removed, a self-supporting embroidered structureresults.

At Step 530, the self-supporting, embroidered structure 200 may undergoadditional processing. For example, if fusible strands are present inthe structure, the structure 200 may be heated to induce fusion. Oncecooled, the fused fibers will stiffen the matrix, reducing itsresiliency. Alternatively, the embroidered structure may be secured toanother structure to form a composite structure. For example, theself-supporting embroidered structure 200 may be secured to a woven,knitted, or non-woven textile. The textile may form a portion of theupper, or may define an additional (exterior) layer within thestructure. By way of specific example, the textile may define the borderof the upper, providing a narrow band capable of being secured to thesole structure. Alternatively, the textile may be a decorative trimpiece.

Additionally, a thermoplastic skin layer may be bonded to theembroidered structure 200 to provide water resistance and/or abrasionprotection. In general, the skin layer is softened to infiltrate thefibers of the yarn matrix, then cooled, securing the skin layer to theupper.

Finally, in Step 535, either the resulting composite textile structureor the self-supporting embroidered structure 200 is secured to a solestructure to form the article of footwear.

Examples of footwear uppers formed utilizing the process explained aboveis provided in FIGS. 6 and 7. Referring to FIG. 6, the footwear upper600 includes a body 605 and a tongue 610, each including an embroideredstructure 200 defining a high stitch density areas 615A, medium stitchdensity areas 615B, and low stitch density areas 615C. As explainedabove, areas 615C of low stitch density possess lower tensile strength,but possess higher breathability properties since the embroideredstructure possesses a generally open, mesh-like configuration. Asillustrated, low stitch density areas may be located along the toe cage,along the lateral side 617A and the medial side 617B, and within theheel cup 618. The medium stitch density areas 615B surround each of thelow stitch density areas 615C, which, in turn, are surrounded by highstitch density areas 615A that extend to the outer perimeter 620A andinterior perimeter 620B of the body 605 and the perimeter 625 of tongue610. As illustrated, the lateral side 617A stitch pattern is a mirrorimage medial side 617B stitch pattern (as divided by body centerline C).

The footwear upper 600 further includes a plurality of eyelets disposedat selected locations along the body 605. Specifically, a plurality ofspaced lateral eyelets 630A is oriented along the interior bodyperimeter 620B (proximate tongue opening). Similarly, a plurality ofspaced medial eyelets 630B is oriented along the interior body perimeter620B (proximate tongue opening).

A series of structural elements 415 are further included in the footwearupper. Specifically, a structural element 415 (e.g., one or more hightension strength strands captured in a channel or pocket 425) isassociated with each eyelet of the plurality of eyelets 630A, 630B. Asshown, each structural element is generally aligned with the directionof the tensile load, encircling each eyelet and extending from interiorbody perimeter 620B to exterior body perimeter 620A. Additionally, thebody 605 further includes a structural element 415 running from thefirst eyelet 635A one the lateral side 617A around the centerline C ofthe heel cup 618 and to the first eyelet 635B on the medial side 617B.

Additionally, the footwear upper 600 includes one or more compressionelements 640 disposed at selected locations. Specifically, a compressionelement 640 is positioned within the heel cup 618, proximate the bodyinterior perimeter 620B (i.e., along the collar of the upper). As shownthe compression element extends from the lateral side 617A of the heelcup to the medial side 617B of the heel cup. Additionally, the tongue610 includes a compression element 640 operable to provide cushioning tothe instep of the wearer.

The structural element 415, as well as the cushioning element 640, maybe incorporated in the footwear upper as described above.

FIG. 7 illustrates a footwear upper 700 in accordance with an embodimentof the invention. The upper 700 includes a body 705 having a centerlineC defining a lateral body side 710A and a medial body side 710B. Thebody, furthermore, defines a first or sole-facing perimeter 715A and asecond or eyelet perimeter 715B, which, in turn, defines tongue opening720. A plurality of eyelets 722 is disposed along the second perimeter715B, being formed on each of the lateral and medial sides. In contrastwith the embodiment of FIG. 6, the footwear upper 700 of FIG. 7 includesa forward embroidered portion 725A and a rearward non-embroidered(textile) portion 725B connected via, e.g., stitching. The embroideredportion 725A generally spans the forefoot and midfoot areas of the foot,while the non-embroidered portion 725B generally spans the heel area ofthe foot.

The embroidered portion 725A includes an embroidered structure 200 asdescribed above, including a high stitch density area 727A, a mediumstitch density area 727B, and a low stitch density area 727C. Thelateral quarter 730A and the medial quarter 730B, furthermore, eachincludes a yarn matrix similar to that described above, having a firstcrossing yarn row 230A oriented general orthogonally to a secondcrossing yarn row 230B, which are each intersected by a generallyarcuate third crossing yarn row 230C. Within the quarters 730A, 730B,the longitudinal axis of the first crossing yarn row 230A is orientedgenerally orthogonally to the edges of the first 715A and second 715Bbody perimeters, while the longitudinal axis of the second crossing yarnrow 230B is oriented generally parallel to the perimeters.

As best seen in FIG. 8, the embroidered structure 200 in the vamp 735includes a first crossing yarn row 230A, a second crossing yarn row230B, and a third crossing yarn row 230C. Similar to the aboveconfiguration, the first crossing yarn row 230A is oriented generallyorthogonally to the first 715A and second 715B body perimeters. Each ofthe second crossing yarn row 230B and the third crossing yarn row 230Care generally arcuate. The embroidered structure 200 further includestension yarns disposed at selected locations and configured to dispersetensile load on the upper 700. Specifically, the embroidered structureincludes a first set 740 of tension yarns extending from the eyelet 722to the first body perimeter 715A to define a generally straight row anda second set 745 of tension yarns extending forward from each eyelet 722to the first body perimeter 715A to define a generally arcuate row. Eachyarn of the sets 740, 745 includes a first strand 215A and a secondstrand 215B as described above. The strands 215A, 215B may be hightensile strength strands (i.e., strands having a tensile strength of atleast 1000 NiPa such as ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene) or maybe low tensile strength strands (e.g., nylon). In an embodiment, thetension yarns form the innermost layer of the embroidered structure.

The yarn matrix of the quarters 730A, 730B may further include pluralityof individual overstitch strands 750 extending from each eyelet 722 tothe first body perimeter 715A. Each strand may be configured to furtherimprove the strength of the embroidered structure by compensating forlesser tensile forces applied to the shoe during use. That is, eachstrand may extend from the eyelet 722 at a predetermined angle thataligns with the expected axis of tensile load applied to the upper. Inan embodiment, the overstitch strands 750 form the outermost layer ofthe embroidered structure.

As with the above embodiment, the embroidered structure 200 may furtherinclude a structural element to further compensate for forces applied tothe eyelets during operation. By way of example, the upper 700 mayinclude a reinforcing structure formed of a nonwoven textile that isincorporated into the embroidered structure 200.

The textile portion 725B may comprise materials utilized in conventionalfootwear. By way of example, it may comprise a knitted or woven fabricouter layer, a foam intermediate layer, and a knitted or woven fabricinterior layer.

The above described invention provides a self-supporting embroideredelement. This is in contrast with conventional uppers utilizingembroidery techniques, which require a substrate or foundation layer towhich one or more strands are secured.

Utilizing the above invention, it is possible to create an article offootwear having an upper with predetermined physical properties,including, but not limited to, stretch, breathability, and abrasionresistance. During walking, running, or other ambulatory activities,forces induced in footwear may tend to stretch upper in variousdirections, with forces concentrated at various locations. The strandsare located to function as structural elements in the upper, e.g. topermit, limit, or resist stretching in various directions or reinforcelocations where forces are concentrated.

While the invention has been described in detail and with reference tospecific embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to one skilled in theart that various changes and modifications can be made therein withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope thereof. For example, the materialsforming the crossing yarns 205 may be any suitable for its describedpurpose. The yarns may be selectively utilized to modify properties offootwear 10 including stretch, stretch-resistance, air permeabilitywear-resistance, etc. Additionally, the yarns may be selectively placedwithin the upper to provide specific areas of upper with desiredproperties. For example, a particular material/structure may beconcentrated in areas of the upper that experience wear, such as inforefoot region. If utilized for wear-resistance, the yarns may beformed of materials that exhibit high wear-resistance properties. Otherfunctional yarns may be utilized such as those capable of transportingmoisture and thus of absorbing sweat and moisture may be utilized. Theyarns may be electrically conducting, self-cleaning, thermallyregulating and insulating, flame resistant, and/or UV-absorbing.

In addition, fusible yarns may be utilized. Fusible yarns soften whenexposed to heat of a predetermined temperature, hardening once cooled(e.g., at ambient conditions). Fusible yarns are formed of thermoplasticpolymer material, such as polyurethane, nylon, polyester, andpolyolefin. Fusible yarns may also include a mixture of a thermoplasticyarn and polyester or nylon. The structure of such yarns may include athermoplastic yarn surrounded by a non-thermoplastic yarn; anon-thermoplastic yarn surrounded by thermoplastic yarn; and acombination of thermoplastic and non-thermoplastic yarns. After beingheated to the melting temperature, the thermoplastic yarn fuses with thenon-thermoplastic yarn (e.g. polyester or nylon), stiffening the textilematerial. In order to improve the bond between the thermoplasticmaterial and the yarn, the yarn's surface is texturized. Thethermoplastic material melts at least partially in the process and fuseswith the yarn. After pressing, the embroidered structure 200 is cooledso that the bond is hardened and fixed.

The strands of the crossing yarns 205 may possess any dimensions(size/shape) suitable for their described purpose. The density of thestitches 225 may also be selected to modify the characteristics of theupper. For example, areas with relatively high concentrations ofstitches 225 may flex to a lesser degree than areas with relatively lowconcentrations of stitches. Similarly, areas with relatively highconcentrations of stitches may be less air-permeable than areas withrelatively low concentrations of stitches.

The athletic footwear includes running shoes, baseball shoes, basketballshoes, cross-training shoes, cycling shoes, football shoes, tennisshoes, soccer shoes, walking shoes, and hiking boots, etc. Footwearstyles may further include non-athletic styles such as dress shoes,loafers, sandals, etc.

The embroidered structure 200 may be formed utilizing any suitableembroidery apparatus or process, whether by machine or hand. In machineembroidery, a variety of conventional embroidery machines may beutilized to form embroidered structure 200, and the embroidery machinesmay be programmed to embroider specific patterns or designs from one ora plurality of threads. In general, an embroidery machine forms patternsor designs by repeatedly securing a thread to various locations suchthat portions of the thread extend between the locations and arevisible. Conventional embroidery machines may form patterns or designson temporary substrate by forming satin-stitches, running-stitches, orfill-stitches, each of which may utilize a lock-stitch to secure threadto base layer. Satin-stitches are a series of zigzag-shaped stitchesformed closely together. Running-stitches extend between two points andare often used for fine details, outlining, and underlay. Fill-stitchesare series of running stitches formed closely together to form differentpatterns and stitch directions, and fill-stitches are often utilized tocover relatively large areas.

Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers the modificationsand variations of this invention provided they come within the scope ofthe appended claims and their equivalents. It is to be understood thatterms such as “top”, “bottom”, “front”, “rear”, “side”, “height”,“length”, “width”, “upper”, “lower”, “interior”, “exterior”, and thelike as may be used herein, merely describe points of reference and donot limit the present invention to any particular orientation orconfiguration.

We claim:
 1. An upper for an article of footwear, the upper comprising amultilayer textile structure including: a first layer comprising a firstplurality of yarn rows, each yarn row comprising a first strand and asecond strand, the first and second strands being interlocked via aplurality of stitches selectively disposed at locations along the yarnrow; and a second layer including a second plurality of yarn rows, eachyarn row comprising a first strand and a second strand, the first andsecond strands being interlocked via a plurality of stitches selectivelydisposed at locations along the yarn row, wherein a yarn row of thefirst plurality of yarn rows is positioned between the first strand andthe second strand of a yarn row of the second plurality of yarn rows. 2.The upper according to claim 1, wherein each yarn row of the firstplurality of yarn rows defines a secured area at each stitch locationand an unsecured area between adjacent stitch locations.
 3. The upperaccording to claim 2, wherein: within the secured area, the first strandis wrapped around the second strand; and within the unsecured area, thefirst strand is generally aligned with the second strand.
 4. The upperaccording to claim 1, further comprising a structural element positionedbetween the first layer and the second layer.
 5. The upper according toclaim 4, wherein the structural element includes an eyelet operable toreceive a lace.
 6. The upper according to claim 4, wherein thestructural element is a non-woven textile.
 7. The upper according toclaim 1 further comprising a third layer including a yarn row comprisinga first strand and a second strand, the first and second strands beinginterlocked via a plurality of stitches disposed at selected locationsalong the yarn row, wherein the first layer and the second layer arepositioned between first strand and the second strand of the third layeryarn row.
 8. The upper according to claim 1, wherein, in each of theplurality of yarn rows, the first strand differs from the second strand.9. The upper according to claim 1, wherein, in each plurality of yarnrows, the first strand and the second strand are formed of nylon. 10.The upper according to claim 1, wherein: the first plurality of yarnrows is oriented within the upper along a first direction; and thesecond plurality of yarn rows is oriented within the upper along asecond direction.
 11. The upper according to claim 1, wherein one ormore yarn rows defines a generally arcuate line possessing apredetermined radius of curvature.
 12. The upper according to claim 1,wherein: stitches of the first and second plurality of yarn rowscooperate to define a stitch density within the upper; the stitchdensity of a first predetermined area of the upper possesses a firststitch density value; and the stitch density of a second predeterminedarea of the upper possesses a second stitch density value different fromthe first stitch density.
 13. The upper according to claim 12, whereinthe first stitch density value is greater than the second stitch densityvalue.
 14. The upper according to claim 1, wherein the upper comprises:a body defining a perimeter, the body perimeter defining a tongueopening; and an eyelet disposed along the body perimeter proximate thetongue opening.
 15. The upper according to claim 14 further comprising atongue coupled to the body such that the tongue is disposed within thetongue opening.
 16. The upper according to claim 15, wherein: the bodyof the upper includes a lateral body side and a medial body side; andeach of the lateral body side and the medial body side includes thefirst layer and second layer.
 17. The upper according to claim 1,wherein the upper includes a first stitch type and a second stitch type.18. The upper according to claim 17, wherein the first and second stitchtypes are selected from the group consisting of a fill stitch, a satinstitch, and a running stitch.
 19. The upper according to claim 1,wherein the layers form a self-supported structure in which strands arenot secured to a substrate.
 20. The upper according to claim 1, whereinthe second plurality of yarn rows is positioned between the firstplurality of yarn rows such that: the first strand of each yarn row ofthe first plurality of yarn rows passes above the first strand of eachyarn row of the second plurality of yarn rows; and the second strand ofeach yarn row of the first plurality of yarn rows passes below thesecond strand of each yarn row of the second plurality of yarns rows.